A gunman is on the run after a man was shot outside a shopping centre in Melbourne. 

Police were called to Broadmeadows Central on Pascoe Vale Road about 3.45pm today after a man was shot by a stranger.

The man was taken to Royal Melbourne Hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

A crime scene has been established, with police and emergency services scouring the area.

They appear to be looking at a number of items left at the scene, including a clothing item, some sandals, a backpack and a black car left on the grass.

The investigation is ongoing as the shooter remains missing.

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